I have a JD 300 that I just purchased a 54 inch plow for. The rear tires are brand new 10.5 ag/bar tires that are filled with ballast. I also have a 50lb JD cast iron wheel weight for each side. That would be a total of about 270 lbs on the back before I get on...another 200!!!
I was wondering if...
1) Would I need additional weight on the back? I could hang suitcase weights on my sleeve hitch.
2) is there any sense in adding tire chains?
I know I could simply wait and see how it does but I'd like to get this nailed down before the snow comes.
Thanks for the help everyone.

I have a 140, which is essentially the same as a 300. Main difference is I'm running 23x 8.50x12 tires. Last year, i had 1 set of wheel weights. and about 100lbs on the sleeve hitch. It worked pretty well considering we got all 3ft of our snow in one storm. It did struggle find traction on driveways with a slope. Some times it would push way more then you would ever think. Next time left you wanting more. For this season however i have fluid filled the tires. Which is came out to about 60lbs between the two tires. Added a 3pt hitch. and made a customer bar that lets me hang barbell weights from the hitch. Hoping to hang about 150-200lbs from the 3pt. With the added weights on the hitch, it does make the tractor easier to steer with he blade in the air.

First of all, are you going to be on concrete or asphalt? Or is the area gravel? I know you folks are a lot colder up there and the gravel could freeze solid as concrete. But it would be a rougher surface.

I used the 49 blower on my 120 for two snow storms before I tore it down to rebuild. It had the 23x8.50-12s turfs on the rear and was using chains and NO weights. From that experience, I would say you want the chains but might better results with them on turf tires.

I am going to try the blade with the All Trails from the 120 on the 312 with the 43 blade without the blade.

Hi Guys- I am plowing on stone dust, I think in the U.S. in some places it's called crush and run? So I'm not worried about tearing anything up. I have about 300 ft of circular driveway but I'm in the country so have lot's of space to push the snow to the sides. Screws in the tires is a good possibility-thanks Noel.

Being on stone and not worrying about marking up your drive. I think two link chains would be the first step. The snow I am used to is wet n heavy and super slick after the first time across. With you being farther north, your snow is likely drier and not as slick. Weights might not be needed.